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The Appeal to Caesar 


A Sacred Drama in Three Acts 

Protraying the Character and Life 
of the Apostle Paul. 

by the Rev. David H. Jemison 


vJB 


COPYRIGHT 1914. DAVID HERBERT JEMISON 

Prepared for the special use of the 
Kappa Sigma Pi, or Modern Knights of St. Paul 

All rights and privileges reserved. 





PUBLISHED AND CONTROLLED BY 

Grand Chaplain, Kappa Sigma Pi, D. H. Jemison 

222 WEST FOURTH STREET 
CINCINNATI. OHIO. U. S. A. 
































The Appeal to Caesar 

A Sacred Drama in Three Acts ^ 

Protraying the Character and Life 
of the Apostle Paul. 

by the rev. David H. jemison 

COPYRIGHT 1914. DAVID HERBERT JEMISON 

Prepared for the special use of tne 
Kappa Sigma Pi, or Modern Knights of St. Paul 

All rights and privileges reserved. 

PUBLISHED AND CONTROLLED BY 

Grand Chaplain, Kappa Sigma Pi, D. H. Jemison 

222 WEST FOURTH STREET 




Saint Paul’s Appeal to Caesar 

A Historical Drama by Rev. D. H. Jemison 


Act I. Paul before Festus and Agrippa in castle at Caesarea. 

Act II. Chained to a soldier in his own hired house in Rome. 

Act III. Paul’s second trial in Rome. Before the Bloody Nero. 

The language is largely scriptural and otherwise in harmony with 
the scriptural accounts and inferences, and alw ays true to the character 
and teachings of the greatest Apostle. 


Characters 

» I 

Julius: The Centurion who took Paul to Rome and later became 
Praefect of the Imperial Guards under Nero. 

Cornelius: Centurion of Caesarea. A just mar, who prayed and 
was first taught the true way by the Apostle Peter. 

Festus: Roman governor of the province, successor to Felix. 

High Priest: Annanias in office through political intrigue. 

Fertullus: A Roman lawyer and orator practicing in Jerusalem and 
elsewhere. 

Paul: The great Apostle to the Gentiles. 

Agrippa: King of Judea, Herodian dynasty, reared in Rome, subject 
to the Emperor. 

Bernice: The ill-mated partner of Agrippa. 

Luke: The evangelist and companion of Paul 

Paul’s Guard: Chained together that Paul might have limited 

freedom. 

Mark: The evangelist and companion of Paul. 

Onesimus: A converted runaway slave which Paul sent back to his 
master Philemon to receive his forgiveness and pardon. 

Tychicus: A Christian companion and messenger for Paul. 

MAY -4 i3I4(g)Q| [) 3 6 9 7 4 ^ 

/w#< < ' 


Paulina: The probable name of Paul’s sister of Judea who it is assumed 
visited her brother during his Rome imprisonment. 

Lad: Paulina’s son, who saved Paul from Jewish plot in Jerusalem 
by giving information to officials. 

Captain: A centurion or petti officer in Roman garrison. 

Nero: A Caesar, Roman Emperor 14 years. Moif cruel and de¬ 
praved of men. Killed himself A. D. 70. 

Popaea: Nero’s paramour, a pr^selite to Jewish faith in position to 
secure Paul’s death to please his enemies. 

Alexander: The coppersmith of Ephesus, whose trade had been in¬ 
jured by Paul’s preaching against idolatry. 

Soldiers or armored guards as needed. 

Jews: Three or more. 

Christian Worshipers: Singers and martyrs, as needed. 

Court: Attendants and entertainers ad. lib. 


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Paul s "Appeal To Caesar" 


This Sacred Drama has been prepared in the same spirit and 
for the same purpose as the rituals and regular work of our Order, 
viz. to help develop Christian character and preach the vital gospel 
of Christ. 

This play has been tried out by several different and widely 
scattered chapters, and thoroughly tested by critics and popular au¬ 
diences. It is a success. You need not fail with it. It can be spo¬ 
ken or read without staging or costumes with pleasure. It can be 
played by 12 or 14 young men by eliminating some unnecessary parts 
and doubling on others,or it can be enlarged by additional soldiers, 
citizens, and court entertainers to 60 or 100 characters in full stage 
and costumes. 

It has been prepared for churches and halls but it has been 
taken by the churches to the largest theaters and auditoriums. The 
Central office has expended several hundred dollars on costumes 
and scenery which,with the play right, is rented at a comparatively 
nominal rate according to the needs and conditions of each local 
chapter orchurch applying, and all profit through this royalty after 
cost is provided will go to the missionary and extension work of 
the Kappa Sigma Pi. 

The director should impress the actors with the purpose to 
teach and represent important religious truths, and we suggest that 
each rehearsal be opened with a short prayer for divine blessing. 
This will not detract from the great pleasure and wholesome enjoy¬ 
ment the young people have in working up and giving this beautiful 
performance. 

SOME REASONS FOR USING IT. 

1. To preach the gospel in a popular and effective way. 

2. To advertise the spirit and character of K. S. P. 

3. To teach the boys the life of our hero- 

4. To make the chapter live and grow stronger, 

5. To use a delightful method in securing funds to promote 

your work. 

There are other reasons you can find. 


APPEAL TO C/ESAR. 
ACT I. 


Scene i. (Curtain rises with Cornelius DL inspecting the court 
room in a slow, dignified manner. Enter from right, Julius.) 


Julius: 

Why is the castle all astir at this early hour, Cor¬ 
nelius? Me thinks this quite unusual. 

Cornelius : 

This is an important day in Caesarea, Julius, and my 
heart is heavy lest justice and right may not prevail. 

Julius: 

Thou stirrest my interest. What can thy words 
mean? Tell me the news that seems to have missed 
me since my arrival. 

Cornelius : 

Well, thou hast heard of our noted prisoner Paul of 
Tarsus, whom Felix left in bonds in my care these 
two years. Since Festus is governor and has just 
returned from Jerusalem, he hath set this day for 
the trial of Paul. 

Julius: 

Why art thou so concerned for the welfare of this 
prisoner ? 

Cornelius : 

I could not have so noble a man in my charge for 
two years without becoming much attached to him, 
and believing him innocent; besides, his faith and 
mine are the same, and he has helped me much to 
understand the wonderful teachings of Jesus of 
Nazareth. 

Julius: 

If thou art sure of his innocence, why art thou un¬ 
easy for the results of his trial? 

Cornelius: 

Because it is a game of politics. ( Looking about to 
see if alone.) Festus is playing for the favor of the 
Jewish leaders, and they are set on the death of 
Paul, and have no scruples as to the method. Not 
being able to kill him when Claudius Lysias sent 
him down here to escape their plot, they now seek 
to have him sent back to Jerusalem, so that they 
may have him assassinated on the way. 

If Festus complies with their demand, there is 
no hope. 


1 


Julius: This trial will be quite interesting. But this in 

itself would not stir up the people to the hustle and 
bustle that I see on the streets at this early hour, 
would it? 

Cornelius: Probably not; but besides the arrival of the prose¬ 

cutors and witnesses from Jerusalem, including many 
important personages, a runner has come, saying 
that King Agrippa with Bernice will also soon 
arrive. 

Julius: I shall be alert to see and learn all that I can to¬ 

day, and may I ask a favor of thee, Cornelius? 


Cornelius: Ask on, Julius; helpfulness is the desire of my heart 

since I have found Jesus as a Savior and Friend. 


J uliu s: 


Cornelius : 


Julius : 
Cornelius : 


When we have opportunity, tell me more about 
thy religion and thy strange experience with Peter 
the Apostle, rumors of which have reached me, for 
I admire thee and would like a spirit like thine. 

However, the request I had in mind is political. 
I’ll tell thee confidentially, I am promised the posi¬ 
tion of the Prefect of the Imperial Guards in Rome, 
and it is important that I am near when the change 
is made. 

When thou hast the ear of the governor, tell 
him it would be well to make me his first messenger 
to Rome, and some day I may serve thee. 

I shall gladly do what I can without thought of 
thy reward, but in His name, that thou mayest some 
day be a disciple and serve the holy cause in Rome. 

The hour is near, and the court must be pre¬ 
pared, so I must hasten to my duties. 

Pardon the delay I have caused thee, Cornelius; 
I, too, must go; but command me at any time. 

(Going to UL) Ho, soldiers, bring in the prisoner 
and witnesses; Lord Festus hath ordered court. 


Scene 2. (Enter at DL Paul between two soldiers, chained to 

one of them, cross to UR, and face DC. Cornelius follows over 
to UR, motions to Tertullus to enter, then takes position between 


Paul and governor’s seat.) 

(Enter at Dll Tertullus, High Priest Annas, and two or three 

other Jews, cross to UL and face DC. Julius follows to DL and 
faces DC.) 


(Enter at DR Governor Festus with two soldier guards, passes 
to judgment-seat in UC, all bowing before him; Festus sits and 
guards pass to his rear and stand. Positions thus form a V shape 
line-up, so the audience can see and hear every speaking part. In 
addressing the throne, Paul and others must turn their laces to him 
as needed, but not turn their back on the audience and so bury 
their -voice in the wings.) 


Festus : 


Cornelius : 


Festus: 


Cornelius, what quarrel or disturbance troubleth our 
court and taxeth our patience this morning? 

My lord governor, the Jewish authorities having 
thy promise while in Jerusalem are here to prose¬ 
cute Paul, formerly called Saul of Tarsus. Wit¬ 
nesses and prisoner are here before thee seeking thy 
judgment. 

What are the records in this case? 


Cornelius: I have here the charge sent with the prisoner from 

Jerusalem by Lysias, the chief captain two years 
ago, upon which Felix deferred judgment to thee. 

Festus: Let it be read. 


Cornelius: (Or assistant) “Claudius Lysias sends greetings 

unto the most excellent Felix the governor. This 
man was seized by the Jews and was on the point 
of being killed by them, when I came and rescued 
him with my soldiers; for I learned that he was a 
Roman citizen. And when I wished to learn the 
charge which they made against him, I took him 
down to their Sanhedrin, and there I found that the 
charge had reference to certain questions of their 
law, and that he was accused of no offense worthy 
of death or imprisonment. And now having re¬ 
ceived information from a lad that a plot has been 


Festus : 

High Priest: 

Festus : 
Tertullus : 


High Priest: 

Festus : 

Paul : 


formed against the man’s life, I send him to thee 
forthwith, and have told his accusers that they 
must bring their charge before thee. Farewell. 

{Aside) Felix must have been looking for a bribe, 
as usual, or he would not have left this man over 
to embarrass me. 

(Louder) What are thy accusations, Annas? 

This fellow hath greatly disturbed the authorities 
of our nation, but lest I blunder in speech before 
thee, Tertullus, the learned Roman lawyer, will at 
thy bidding make accusation. 

Speak on, Tertullus. 

Seeing that by thee we enjoy much peace, and by 
thy office evils are corrected for this nation, we ac¬ 
cept it in all ways and in all places, most excellent 
governor, with all thankfulness. But that I be not 
further tedious unto thee, I entreat thee to hear us 
of thy clemency a few words. For we have found 
this fellow a pestilent fellow, and a mover of in¬ 
surrection among all the Jews throughout the wbtld, 
which is an offense against the Roman Government. 
Second, he is a ring leader of the sect of the Naza- 
renes, which involves heresy against the law of 
Moses. And third, he tried to profane the temple 
when Rome gives protection to the Jewish worship, 
and it was on this occasion that we laid hold on 
him. 

By examining him thyself thou shalt take knowl¬ 
edge of all these things of which we accuse him. 

Tertullus has well spoken, for Saul is a dangerous 
man to this nation. 

{Others of the Jewish party may make similar 
remarks .) 

{Beckoning to Paul) What hast thou to say for 
thyself ? 

Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been many 
years a judge in this nation, I cheerfully make my 
defense. For thou hast the power to learn that 


High Priest: 
Tertullus: 


. ; 


within twelve days of the time that I went up to 
Jerusalem I was before Felix in this court where 
these accusers failed to convict me. 

Neither in the temple, nor in the synagogue, nor 
in the streets did they find me disputing with any 
man, nor gathering a crowd. 

Neither can they prove these things whereof thev 
now accuse me. But this 1 confess unto thee, that 
after the way which they call a sect, so serve i the 
God of our fathers, believing all things which are 
according to the law and which are written in the 
prophets; having hope toward God, which these 
also themselves look for that there shall be a resur¬ 
rection of the just and the unjust. 

I also strive earnestly to keep a conscience al¬ 
ways free of offense toward God and man. 

Now after several years 1 come back to Jeru¬ 
salem to bring alms to my nation and offerings to 
the temple. And they found me so doing in the 
temple, not gathering a multitude nor causing a 
tumult; but certain Jews from Asia discovered me 
who ought to have been here before thee to accuse me 
if they had any object against me. 

Or let these, my accusers, say themselves whether 
they found me guilty of any offense when I was 
brought before the Sanhedrin, except for these words 
only when I cried out as I stood in their midst: 
“Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am called 
in question before you this day.” 

Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against 
the temple, nor against Caesar have I sinned at all. 

{To Tertullus) Quick, now, or w'e lose our chance. 

My Lord Festus, pardon my boldness; but if thou 
wouldst send this prisoner back to the Sanhedrin 
and let the Jewish law have its course, it would 
be most pleasing to the nation. 

This man was before the Sanhedrin, and they failed 
to agree that he was guilty; besides, he is a Roman 
citizen and is in the care of my government. It 
can not be as you ask. 


F estus : 


Tertullus : 


Festus : 


Festus : 


Paul: 


Festus: 


Cornelius : 


May 1 make one more request, most noble Festus? 
If thou thyself would be pleased to again go to Je¬ 
rusalem and try this case nearer the scene of the 
arrest, it is all we can ask of thee. 

(Motions Cornelius to approach and holds a mo¬ 
ment’s conversation with him in an undertone, but 
from the motions and glances the audience can see 
that Cornelius is warning him against their plot.) 

{To Cornelius) These Jew's have no case against 
this man, but they will make trouble for me if I 
let him get away from them. {Louder to Paul) 
Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem and there be judged 
of these things before me? 

I am standing before Caesar’s judgment-seat, and 
here ought my trial to be. To the Jew’s have I 
done no wrong, as thou know'est full well. If 1 
am guilty of breaking the law, and have done any 
thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die; but if 
these things are false of which they accuse me, m 
man can give me up to them. •• 

I appeal to Caesar! 

{After conferring with Cornelius) Thou hast ap¬ 
pealed unto Caesar; unto Caesar thou shalt go. 

{Chagrin and anger among the Jews and con¬ 
gratulations among Paul’s friends.) 

{Trumpet sound in R wing announcing the ar¬ 
rival of King A grip pa and Bernice.) 

{After trumpet runs to R entrance—looks out—turns 
court — speaks.) My Lord Festus, the king is with¬ 
out, his royal guard in attendance. And with him 
his Queen Bernice. 

Let all ye people receive the King Agrippa. 

{Then entrance oj king and Bernice, four guards, 
and other citizens of (Aesarea, if available. All 
bow before the king, as Festus steps down with 
Roman salutation, then takes the king’s hand and 
escorts him to the middle seat, while the king 
leads Bernice to the seat at R and Festus takes one 
at L.) 


Scene 3. Paul before Agrippa. 


Festus: 


Agrippa : 
Paul: 


(Guests received and seated.) 

King Agrippa, and all men who are here present 
with us, ye behold this man, about whom all the 
multitude of the Jews made suit to me, both at 
Jerusalem and here, crying that he ought not to 
live any longer. But I found that he had com¬ 
mitted nothing worthy of death; as he himself 
appealed unto the emperor, I determined to send 
him. Of whom I have no certain thing to write 
unto my lord. Wherefore I bring him before you, 
and especially before thee, King Agrippa, that, 
after examination, I may have somewhat to write. 
For it seemeth foolish to me, in sending a prisoner, 
not withal to signify the charges against him. 

Paul, thou art permitted to speak for thyself. 

(Stretching forth his hand) I think myself happy, 
King Agrippa, that I shall defend myself to-day, 
before thee, against all the charges of the Jewish 
accusers; especially because thou art expert in all the 
customs and questions of the Jews. Wherefore I 
pray thee hear me patiently. 

My life and conduct from my youth is known to 
all the Jews. They knew me from the beginning 
and can testify, if they would, that, following the 
strictest sect of our religion, I lived a Pharisee. 

And now I stand here to be judged for the hope 
of the promise made by God unto our fathers. 
Which promise is the end whereto, in all their 
zealous worship, night and day, our twelve tribes 
hope to come. Yet this hope, O King Agrippa, is 
charged against me as a crime, and that by Jews. 
What! is it judged among you a thing incredible 
that God should raise the dead? 

Now I myself determined in my own mind that 
I ought strongly to oppose the name of Jesus the 
Nazarene. 

And this I did in Jerusalem, and many of the 
holy people I myself shut up in prison, having re- 


Bernice : 
Festus: 


ceived from the chief priests authority to do so; and 
when they were condemned to death, I gave my 
vote against them. 

And in every synagogue I continually punished 
them, and tried to make them blaspheme; and be¬ 
ing exceedingly mad against them, I went even to 
foreign cities to persecute them. 

With this purpose I was on my road to Da¬ 
mascus, bearing commission from the high priests, 
when I saw in the way, O King Agrippa, at mid¬ 
day a light from heaven, above the brightness of 
the sun, shining round about me and those who 
journeyed with me. And when we were all fallen 
to the earth I heard a voice speaking to me in the 
Hebrew tongue, saying: Saul, Saul, why persecutes! 
thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the 
goad. And I said, Who art thou, Lord ? And the 
Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. But 
rise and stand upon thy feet; go into the city, to 
the street called Straight, to the house of one Judas, 

and thou shalt be told what to do. For unto this 

»r 

end I have appeared unto thee, to ordain thee a 
minister and a witness, both of these things which 
thou hast seen, and of those things where n I shall 
appear unto thee. 

Wherefore, O King Agrippa, I was not diso¬ 
bedient unto the heavenly vision. But first to those 

J 0 

at Damascus, then at Jerusalem and all Judea, and 
even unto the Gentdes, I proclaim the tidings that 
they should repent and turn to God. 

For these causes the Jews, when they caught me 
in the temple, tried to kill me. Therefore, through 
God’s help, I stand firm unto this day and testify 
both to small and great; but I declare nothing else 
but what the prophets and Moses foretold, that the 
Messiah should suffer and die and be raised from 
the dead, and should proclaim light to the peop’e. 

O, O! Festus, that man is beside himself. 

(Interrupting in a loud voice) . ( Rising ) Paul, 

thou art mad, thy much learning is turning thee mad. 


Paul: 

Agrippa : 

Festus: 

Agrippa : 

Hernice : 

Paul: 


Agrippa : 

Paul: 


I am not mad, most noble Festus, but speak forth the 
words of soberness and truth. 

(Interrupting) I have heard enough. ( Rising) 

Let us retire. 

Cornelius, thou wilt deliver the prisoner into the 
hands of Julius, whom thou hast recommended as 
trustworthy, that he may be taken without delay 
by the first vessel to Rome. 

Julius, thou wilt come to me to-morrow for the 
letter explaining the case and the appeal to Caesar. 

This man might hav^ been set at liberty if he had 
not appealed unto the emperor. 

Agrippa, thou art indeed friendly to the prisoner* 
Art thou a convert to his faith ? 

(Turning to the king) Yea, the king knoweth 
these things, and I can speak to him with boldness, 
for I am persuaded that none of these things are 
hidden from him, for this hath not been done in a 
corner. 

King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? Yea, 
I know that thou believest. 

(Ironically) With a little more persuasion thou 
wouldst make me a Christian. 

I would to God that, whether with little or with 
much, not only thou, but also all that hear me this 
day, might have what I possess, except these chains. 


(As the court breaks up the curtain falls.) 

(A song or some entertainment for the king may be introduced 
as a closing scene.) 


ACT II. 

ROME: IN IUS OWN HIRED HOUSE. 

Scene i. (Curtain rises on Luke sitting at right of writing- 
table in DL, with Paul standing at left of table, chained by right 
wrist to left wrist of soldier-guard, who stands just to rear of him.) 


Luke : 

Well, Brother Paul, we have settled these three days 
in thy hired house, and we are not uncomfortable 
as far as the house goes; thanks to thy citizenship 
and the kindness of Burrus. 

P you: 

Indeed, we are fortunate, and since I must he a 
prisoner for Christ’s sake, I am pleased to have so 
manly a soldier as my guard, and so faithful and 
skillful a companiois as thyself, Brother Luke. 

I.uke : 

I was just wondering perchance I might be a burden 
to thee in the midst of th\ trouble. 

P w/i.: 

F'ar from it; thy skill as a physician and thy power 
to write and teach, together with thy love for our 
Master and His cause, make thee priceless. I'hou 
art a great comfort to me, Luke. ,, 

Luke : 

Thy words make rne happy, anti I shall constantly 
await th\ commands. ( Rising ) Thou hast ex¬ 
pressed a desire to speak with the leading Jews of 
Rome. Shall I go invite them in to-day, Brother 
Paul ? 

P yuj : 

9 

Yes, if 1 can speak with them before our enemies 
send reports to prejudice their minds, it will prevent 
unnecessary trouble. 

Go now if thou wilt, and may the Master give 
thee success in bringing such as should come. 

1 .UK e : 

1 shall hasten and soon return. Farewell. (Raising 
hand high front and dropping it in salute.) 

P yui. : 

P \ui : 

Farewell— (Salute.) (Exit Luke DR.) 

(To soldier) Thou hast the appearance of being a 


good soldier, and I trust I shall not weary thee over 
much, hut rather that thou shalt he entertained h\ 
the many goings on in this place, and shall come 
to be a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 




Guard : 


Paul: 


Guard: 


Paul: 


Guard : 

Paul: 
Guard : 


I have learned enough now to want to be one such 
as thou art. There is no peace in any other religion, 
although I have visited all the altars and tried 
hard to find it. Teach me thy way, I pray thee. 

So I will gladly. The way of life in Jesus is plain 
and simple, so that a wayfaring man, though a 
fool, need not err therein. 

A willing soul is sure to find the way and the 
truth. 

As a disciple thou shalt have great opportunity 
for heroic service in spreading the good news to 
others of thy kind. Hast thou the courage for it? 

I ’ll be the best soldier I can. My master, the pre¬ 
fect of the Praetorian Guards, Burrus Afranius, al¬ 
though what thou callest a heathen, is a great and 
just man in our nation. He with the noble Seneca 
reared and educated Nero from childhood and se¬ 
cured his elevation to emperor. 

But they do say that Nero is more and more un¬ 
willing to listen to the counsel of Burrus, and has 
threatened to dispose of him in the manner he did 
of his mother, wife, and other relatives who crossed 
him whom he thought better dead than alive. 

When Burrus has lost his hold on the emperor, 
then tolerance and justice will take their flight. 

Never fear; there is one greater than Nero before 
whose judgment-seat Nero shall stand. He shall pro¬ 
tect His own from all harm, although some of us may 
have to lay down our lives that the world may 
learn of Him as a mighty Savior, even in the trial 
of death. 

Who seems to have the greatest influence over 
the emperor? 

None more than Popaea, his paramour, for whom he 
killed his faithful wife Octavia. 

What dost thou know of her faith? 

It is reported that she is a proselyte to the Jewish 
faith, but I suppose an unworthy member of it, 
must likely for political purposes. 


Paul: Ah, hut thy news is startling; she will be our most 

dangerous foe if mine enemies, who have hounded 
me these years, shall enlist her service. 

The sea will soon be open long enough for the 
ships of Tyre to reach here bringing mine enemies, 
and let us trust some of our dear friends. 

Keep thy ears open for every report, good and bad, 
that we may not blindly walk into their trap to slay 
me without a just hearing. 

Guard: Through my friends I shall find out every report 

and movement of interest to you from the gates 
to the palace. Trust me, my noble prisoner. 

Paul: Blessed be thou, my brother, and may the Lord lead 

thee into the glory of His great salvation and might¬ 
ily use thee in the cause of truth. 

I hear approaching footsteps, even many. 

(Enter Luke, bringing three or more Jews. I uke UC; first an.I 
second Jew in DR, and third Jew in UR or UC.) 


Luke : 


Paul: 
ist Jew: 


Paul: 


Peace be unto thee, Brother Paul; several of our n - 

t I 

tion, leaders in the synagogues, have co ne at thy 
invitation to meet thee. 

{DC) Peace to thee and welcome to all. Ye ha e 
greatly favored me with your presence. 

We would be courteous to one of our own nation, 
even though he be in chains, for it is according to 
the law to help even an ox out of a pit. We like 
not the idea of a Jew turning from the authority 
of the Sanhedrin to the heathen court, as it is ru¬ 
mored thou hast, but we would hear thee as to this. 

1, brethren, although I had done nothing against 
the people or the customs of our fathers, yet 
was delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the 
hands of the Romans who, when they had ex¬ 
amined me, desired to set me at liberty, because 
there was no cause of death in me. But when the 
Jews spake against it I was constrained to appeal 
to Caesar, not that 1 had aught to accuse my nation. 
This is why 1 did entreat thee to see and speak 



Act I. Before Agrippa. 

“I count myself happy to defend myself before thee.’ 

































> J 


Act II. 

“She is not dead but sleepeth 
















*} 


Act III. 

“I pity thee, thou servant of the devil 











2D Jew: 


3D Jew: 


Paul : 


ist Jew: 


2D Jew: 


3D Jew: 


with me, for because of the hope of israel I am 
bound with this chain. 

We neither received letter from Judea concerning 
thee, nor did any of the brethren come hither to 
speak harm of thee. 

We desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest, for 
as to this sect of the Nazarenes it is known unto 
us that everywhere it is spoken against. 

We can appoint a day to fully discuss this matter, 
but for the present bear with me to say that it is 
well known among my friends and enemies that I 
am a Jew of the tribe of Benjamin, from no mean 
city, Tarsus of Celicia. I sat at the feet of Ga¬ 
maliel, was honored as a magistrate of my city 
and afterwards a member of the Sanhedrin. A 
Pharisee of the Pharisees, everywhere persecuting 
those of this sect until I saw the light and had a 
great vision on the way to Damascus. 

Now, brethren, I am not ashamed of the gospel 
of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation 
to every one that believeth: to the Jew first, and also 
to the Greek. For there is no respect of persons with 
Go 1. For as many as have sinned without the law 
shall also perish without the law; and as many as 
have sinned under the law, shall be judged by the 
law. 

But God recommended His own love toward us 
in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 

Being therefore justified by faith, we have peace 
with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Thy words are blasphemy! There is but one God. 
Thou shalt surely suffer for thy heresy. I wash my 
hands of this place. (Starts to right exit, but is 
stopped by second Jew.) 

Be not hasty, my brother; my heart is greatly 
stirred with the hope of these words of Paul. Surely 
the prophets promised these things to Israel. I 
desire further instruction. 

Yea, these words are too good to be true for me, 


Paul : 

(Exit Jews 
Paul: 

Luke : 

Mark : 

Paul: 


Mark : 

Paul : 


for I must be judged by the law; but if thou, 
Paul, will show me where mercy is, that will 1 
seek. 

I shall gladly point the way as it is revealed in the 
blessed Christ, if thou wilt come another day, but 
now other friends await me, and matters of im¬ 
portance claim my attention. Peace be to you all. 
Farewell! 

at right with a Roman salutation and “farewell.”) 

{DC) Luke, if thou wilt call Mark, I will finish 
my Epistle to Philemon. 

(Going to DL door) Mark, Brother Paul calls for 
thee. 

(Entering at once, bringing parchment and stylus) 

I was awaiting thy call, Brother Paul. {Sits rear 
of table.) {Enter also Onesimus and Tychicus, 
taking seats UC.) 

{Left end of table as in opening scene) Let us send 
forth these epistles at once. I write to thee in full 
confidence of thy obedience, knowing that thou wilt 
do even more than I say. 

Moreover, Philemon, prepare to receive me as 
thy guest; for 1 trust, through your prayers, that 
I shall be given unto thee. 

There, salute thee, Epaphras, Mark, Aristarchus, 
Demas, Luke, my fellow-laborers. 

Give me the pen that I may write my salutation 
with mine own hand. {Reading aloud as he writes.) 
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. 
Brother Mark, is the Epistle to the Church at 
Colosse also ready, so that Tychicus may take it? 

Yes, Brother Paul, Tychicus now has the parch¬ 
ment and is ready for the journey. 

Come thou, Onesimus {Onesimus rises and comes 
to meet Paul), thou hast good company to Colosse. 
thy former home, and this letter to thy master with 
our prayers will soften his heart toward thee, so he 
will not punish thee for thv escape from servitude; 


and now as a good servant of Jesus Christ thou 
canst serve well until set free by the grace of God 
and thy master Philemon, for I would that thou 
wert a servant only of Christ and the Church. 


Onesimus: 


Paul: 


Tychicus: 


Onesimus: 

Luke: 


(Taking roll from Paul) I thank thee for the 
vision of life thou hast taught me, and I am ready 
to do the will of the Lord at any cost. 

And thou, Tychicus ( Tychicus steps forward with 
epistle in his hand), I trust thee not only with the 
letter to the elders of Colosse, but to the brotherly 
care of Onesimus, that he may not falter in his he¬ 
roic decision to return to his master. May peace and 
safety prosper your way! Farewell! 

Our lives are given to the Master's service. Thou 
canst surely trust us. Farewell! (Saluting.) 

(Saluting) Farewell! (Both retire. Right exit.) 

Brother Paul, it is time for the service and the 
Christian brethren are gathering in the court with¬ 
out. Shall we not prepare for worship? 


Paul: My heart is sore at parting with my brethren, and 

1 was so concerned for their welfare that [ forgot 
our appointed service. Thou art right. Let the 
worshipers come in. 

(Enter four or more Christian worshipers; some ladies, sing¬ 
ing as they enter, “In the Cross of Christ l glory ” take positions 
ui VC. Just as the second stanza of the hymn is ended, let there 
he a loud knock at the right entrance. 1 uke goes over and opens 
the door cautiously , or motions as if so to do, and admits a woman 


and a lad.) 


Luke: What do my eyes behold! Paulina, our apostles 

sister from Jerusalem. And here is her little son, 
who saved Paul's life by reporting the plot of the 
Jerusalem Jews to kill him. 


Paul: (Meeting them in DC and taking hands or em¬ 

bracing Pauline) The Lord is gracious in sending 
thee to me. Was there much hardship on the jour- 
eny ? Art thou well? Thou lookest wearied if not 
ill. 



Paulina : 


(Clinging to Paul) The way was long and perilous, 
my brother. After escaping the storms at sea and 
robbers on the highway, our worst danger and 
fright was after entering Rome. There is much 
disorder and rioting on the streets, and but for a 
friendly Roman whom we met, we would not have 
found this place. He said that the Prefect of the 
Guards had been slain by the emperor, a cruel man, 
appointed in his place, and the populace was wild 
with anger or fear. 

Guard: (Paul ami Paulina separate as guard steps up from 

rear to speak) Friend Paul, my fears then have 
been well founded. Burrus is dead. Tigellinus is 
now my master, whose cunning is like a fox, and 
whose heart is as a stone. 

Lad: ( Coming forward) Uncle Paul, do not thou be 

afraid; I am here now. I will get into this game 
myself, for thou knowest what a fine revealer of 
plots I am. 

Paul: Blessings on thee, my lad; even small boy$ can do 

things worth while to advance the Kingdom of God. 
It was a small boy that thought to bring the fish 
that our Master multiplied to feed the great multi¬ 
tude on the mountain-side of Galilee. 

Thou may’st be very helpful to us, but be cau¬ 
tious while in Rome. 

(Turning to sister) Make thyself comfortable 
here, and let us continue our divine service, for the 
God we worship will surely protect us from real 
harm, although our faith is sorely tried and tested 
by the cruelty of our enemies. Let us again sing. 

(Sing another verse of the hymn, and just before 
closing interruption of noise of tramping feet and 
knocking outside, demanding entrance R. The door 
is apparently broken in and four or more soldiers 
enter with flash of spears, shields, drive the fright¬ 
ened worshipers in a huddle at UL of stage.) 

In the name of Nero, I command this worship to 
cease, and arrest ye all. Ye shall be taken to the 


Captain . 


Guard: 


Captain : 


Guard : 


Captain : 


Paul : 


Captain : 


dungeons and fed to the wild beasts to amuse the 
populace and quiet the murmurs against the em¬ 
peror. Soldiers, take them forth ! 

(Worshipers fall back frightened to UL—Paul 
and guard in a dignified ivay to DL. Paulina, <10/10 
has been at UR <with lad and others to her left, is 
separated from them in the excitement, and in at¬ 
tempting to get around soldiers to Paul falls un¬ 
conscious at extreme DR, behind the first soldier 
unnoticed .) 

(Saluting ) Captain, you will pardon me if I cau¬ 
tion thee about too hasty action. Seest thou that I am 
chained to this man ? Knowest not that he is a 
Roman citizen, under military protection, until he 
stand before Cassar? Thou mayest lose thy head 
by a hasty blunder. 

In my haste I did not note thy presence. I forgive 
thy impertinence if perchance thy information proves 
valuable. Who is thy prisoner? 

He is best known by the name of Paul, formerly 
Saul of Tarsus, of Celicia. 

The puzzle is solved. This Paul, then, is the Saul 
for whom I have the warrant to bring before the 
emperor on the morrow. 

Gladly do I hear thy words, captain, for it has 
long been my prayer to stand before Caesar's judg¬ 
ment-seat for justice. As a Roman citizen let me 
plead thy mercy for these, my guests. Take thy 
soldiers and return to thy commander, reporting 
that thou hast located the prisoner needed on ti e 
morrow, and let these go their way. If so, I shall 
pray God for mercy on thee. 

Thy words, Saul, are not without meaning. Me- 
thinks I do well to heed thy advice. 

Soldiers, attention! Depart in order, leaving 
these strange people in peace for a time. 

(Turning so as to see Paulina lying still on the 
floor) What has befallen this woman? I ordered 
none slain. 


Lad: 


Luke: 


Lad: 


Paul: 


Paul: 


(Running dozen stage, kneeling over Paulina, etc.) 
My mother is dead, thou wicked man, killed by 
thy cruel soldiers. 

{Soldiers all shake their head, “No,” as captain 
looks around at them. Captain crosses to front of 
line of soldiers and faces D.) 

{Passing over to DR) I think it is only from fright 
in her exhausted condition from her long journey. 
The soldiers did not strike her, but her heart may 
have failed. 

{Kneeling by her and feeling her pulse) She 
hath no pulse; I fear she is dead. 

{Crosses to Paul) O, Uncle Paul, thou hast the 
magic words of life committed unto thee by the 
Master; speak! speak! she must come back to liie. 

She is not dead, but sleepeth. {Walking to her side 
slowly, holding both hands out over her until she 
is up) Paulina, in the name of the Master, whose 
I am, I command thee to arise and comfort thy son. 

{She arises slowly, as if awaking, and takes the 
lad in her arms, as he sees her stand unassisted, 
cries, “Mother!” and rushes into her arms.) 

Faith in the Christ pardons sin, reforms the life, heals 
diseases, opens the eyes of the blind, raises the dead, 
and comforts those in sorrow. 

Let us sing His praises. {Sing the Gloria Patri.) 
Curtain. 


ACT III. 


CESAR’S COURT: ROME. 

{Paul s Second Trial. Three Years Later than last Act, and First 

Trial Before Clesar.) 

{Nero, C&sar, Popcea, Two Consuls. Seated on raised seats, 
UC. Nero, L, and Popcea, R, slightly higher or forward of Con¬ 
suls, and other Coimsellors or attendants may be arranged about 
as are available. Four soldiers should be stationed back of throne, 
two at extreme DR, Julius at extreme DL, with a soldier next to him, 
with Paul and his guard chained to him next in line toward UC. 
Back of Paul in UL is company of Christians and singers.) 

{hi front line from guards at DR to UC is Alexander, Teriullus, 
back of which in UR is other Jews and Romans.) 

{Curtain rises on scene of entertaining Nero. Haze a soloist 
sing or play as court entertainer, ending soon after the curtain 
rises, and bowing low, back off to side.) 


Julius: 


Nero : 


{Now the Prefect.) {Approaching the throne and 
bowing before Nero)' My lord, at thy commands 
we have assembled the court of justice, and at thv 
divine pleasure the first case to appear before thee 
and thy counsellors is that of the noted prisoner from 
Judea, Paul the Christian. 

Who represents each side of this case? 


Julius: 


Nero : 


Tertullus, the lawyer, from Jerusalem, is here to 
lead the prosecution, and the prisoner, who is a 
Roman citizen, will make his own defense. 

Have all the witnesses arrived? 


Julius: My lord, all is ready according to thy commands. 

Nero: I am pleased at thy obedience and efficiency, Julius. 

The gods were favoring when I raised thee to 
Prefect of the Guards in place of Tigellinus, who 
tried to play with me. But I beat him in the game. 

Ha! ha! ha! Am I not the god of the Romans? 
Does any man or beast dare trifle with my author¬ 
ity? Is there any thing I can not do? 

Talk about poetry! Was there ever such lyric 
as goes forth from my inspired soul? 


Listen, all ye grinning imbeciles, while the whole 
coterie of Roman gods, charmed from their mountain- 
top retreats by the sound of my melodious voice, 
linger around to applaud one of their own divine 
number so talented as the mighty Nero. Listen, 1 
say, while I sing a number of my own compo¬ 
sition. 

(Nero leans back on the judgment-seat and, 
with a self-satisfied air and many foolish gestures, 
sings the following jingle:) 

NERO’S SONG. 

Was ever a man as great as me? 

Heigh ho! diddle dum dee— 

There’s not a thing I do not know, 

Heigh ho! diddle dum do. 

I’m also rich as I can be— 

Heigh ho! diddle dum dee— 

My voice is very sweet and low, 

Heigh ho! diddle dum do. 

My feet are small, you plainly see, 

Heigh ho! diddle dum dee— 

My servants love to bow real low; , • 

Heigh ho! diddle dum do. 

Around the world I put the sea— 

Heigh ho! diddle dum dee— 

I make the sun go fast or slow, 

Heigh ho! diddle dum do. 

{IFhen he finishes, the attendants, counsellors, and others ap¬ 
plaud, even though disgusted.) 

{The applause pleases Nero, and he chuckles good-naturedly, 
and shows by his actions generally that he is satisfied with him¬ 
self.) 

{After loud, forced applause, Nero finally straightens up and 
with a frown on his face says:) 

Nero: I am greatly disturbed in such heavenly exercises 

to give my attention to the law. Let the trial begin. 
Tertullus, present your case! 

Tertullus: {Ingratiating tone) My Lord Caesar, most divine, 

permit me to bring to your august attention the 


crimes against the peace of the empire perpetrated 
by the prisoner before the bar. 

He hath caused trouble and strife among the 
people of his nation in Judea and throughout the 
world. 


Nero: Hath he been before this tribunal before? 

Julius: Yea, my lord, and freed by the court on these 

charges made by his enemies. 


Nero : 

Tertullus: 


Nero: 

Alexander: 


Nero: 

Alexander: 


Nero : 

Alexander : 


Nero : 


{To Tertullus) Why do you bring this case to dis¬ 
turb me in song and music? 

My lord, we have additional evidence. Since he 
was freed by Caesar’s judges, he hath traveled over 
the empire from east to west, from Palestine to 
Spain, everywhere causing strife and insurrection. 

Alexander, the coppersmith, of Ephesus, is here 
to witness against him. 

Alexander, what sayest thou? 

{Old, bent, leaning on staff, high, squeaky 'voice, 
steps forward in DR. Nero and Popaea greatly 
amused.) This man Paul greatly disturbeth our 
nation. In my own city he caused a great tumult 
and greatly injured the crafts. 

Be more specific. 

He taught in our city of Ephesus doctrines opposed 
to the wmrship of the goddess of Diana, and there arose 
a great multitude, led by Demetrius, to slay him. 
I would have spoken to quiet the mob, but they 
cried all the louder. 

Ha, ha, ha! I pity thee; thou art no orator like unto 
me. Who did disperse the mob? 

The town clerk arose in the theater where they were 
gathered, and when he had told them the punish¬ 
ment thy government would inflict for such dis¬ 
turbances, they were quietly dispersed. 

It is well no further violence was done, but I sus¬ 
pect that Demetrius, thy friend, the silversmith, and 



{Paul 

Paul: 


Nero : 


thyself, the coppersmith, were the guilty parties 
in stirring up that riot. 

Julius, thou wilt hold this man in prison for 
further inquiry. 

{At motion of Julius, the two soldiers near Alex¬ 
ander seize him and take him out, but return q.iiet'y 
to their place.) 

Let the prisoner make his defense! 

is brought forward chained to his guard.) 

I count myself fortunate indeed to be able to stand 
before thee this day, for I am sure that thou hast 
seen through the thin cover of legal p.eiensiois to 
the malicious plot of my enemies. They know, as 
thou canst readily ascertain, that I have violated no 
law of thy empire nor disturbed its peace. 

If I belong to the sect of the Nazarenes, I ask no 
more than these Pharisees or Sadducees, who are also 
a part of our Jewish faith. 

I am tired of this quarrel among the Jews. Set this 
man at liberty, let us be done with the case. I 
want something more exciting. ,, 

Where is my harp? Music, music; that only 
Nero can produce. Pry open thv ears and get thy 
fill. 

{Nero is handed an instrument. lie plays poorly, 
but is greatly applauded, although disgust is ap¬ 
parent.) 

{While Nero is performing or others are per¬ 
forming for his amusement, Tertullus and other 
Jews slip around to the side of Poptea and haze a 
guarded but animated conversation with her in 
pantomime. She nods assurance to their request, and 
motions them to resume their places as before.) 

{While T ertullus and Jews are talking to 
Pop(?a, some of the boys might pull off athletic 
stunts to amuse Nero.) 

{When Nero is wearied and the performance is 
ended, Pop ( ea addresses him so all can hear.) 


Pop.EA : 


Nero : 


POPv5jA : 


Nero : 


Pop.^a : 


Nero: 


Paul: 


My lord, thy skill at music seems to excel all others 
in the empire, and even all thy skill in other lines. 
I hou art a great musician, but I think myself thy 
superior as a judge. 

I hy last remark sours the first, and may cost thee 
thy precious life. Thou hast a hidden meaning. 
Out with it if thou carest to linger here but fo/ 
awhile before going the way of my former wife, 
Octavia, and other illustrious members of thy family 
that chose to get in my way. 

My lord, thou mayest w r in the game, but it is now 
my time to play. Thou wilt be pleased at my hand. 
Thy greatest enemy is about to slip away from thy 
very grasp. Thou hast set at liberty this Saul of 
Tarsus. Yet he has been teaching, even while here 
in Rome, that there is one greater than Caesar, one 
he calls Jesus, whom he claims to have risen from 
the dead. 

(In violent passion) What! One greater than 
Caesar! What impudence! Who dares to teach such 
insane ideas to my people? 

Thou knowest not thy opportunity, or this prisoner 
would pay the price for the burning of Rome, which 
many think was due to thy commands. Behead 
this man as the ring leader of the conspiracy to burn 
the sacred city, and all will forget to think of thy 
name in this connection. 

Popaea, thou art a devil much to my liking. I 
thought to slay thee, but I need thee yet awhile. 

Put the prisoner in chains and bring him before 

me. 

Paul, hearest thou the charge, that thou art teach¬ 
ing the Romans that thy Jesus is greater than 
Caesar ? 

Speak thou. 

Jesus, the Christ, whom I worship as Master, is not 
to be compared with any man. 

His Kingdom is not of this world. He seeks not 
thy throne. He is King of Heaven—King of all 
’ kings. 


Nero: 


Paul's 


Nero: 


Julius 


Nero : 


Paul : 


Thou art mad. Away with him! Julius, take him 
to the executioner and let his head be severed from 
his body. Let his blood run forth hot until his heart 
cease. Bury his carcass like a dog. 

Guard: ( Throwing down his spear) My lord, the emperor, 
if this holy man die thus, I worship the same 
Master; let me die with him. 

(Let other soldiers, servants, members of the court 
step forward, confess their faith in Christ, and 
choose death with Paul. With such expressions in 
succession as "And I,” “And I,” “Let me die!” etc.) 

Dogs! Let them be slain upon a cross. Peed them 
to the lions. Chain them together for the death 
march. 

My lord Nero! Wilt thou not be merciful? If this 
prisoner shall withhold his teachings, wilt thou 
not pardon him for pity? 

Nay, but for thy sake; if he will deny his Chr.st 
and worship the gods of Rome, I may perchance 
stay his execution. 

What savest thou. Paul? 

J i i i 

(Speaking with deliberation and dignity, but pro¬ 
gressing to climax at close.) 

Thou art deaf and blind, deformed in mind, soul, 
and body. I pity thee, thou servant of the devil, 
traveling to hell. The curse of a righteous God is 
upon thee. 

Thou shalt bring upon thyself the contempt of the 
whole empire, and shalt be shorn of thy power, and 
Galba shalt reign in thy stead. 

Thou shalt add to thy numerous murders and 
other crimes the blood of her whom thou shalt slay 
in thy madness, even Popaea. 

Within a year thou shalt follow the dictates of 
thy master, the devil, and take thine own miserable 
life. 

In my vision I clearly see the downfall of thy 
empire and religion. The temples of heathenism 
shall crumble and fall into ruin. 


Nero: 


Nero: 


The people shall turn from their idols to the 
living God, who made heaven and earth. The 
Kingdom of Righteousness shall be built up through 
faith in Jesus Christ the Son of God. For there is 
none other name under heaven given among men 
whereby ye may be saved. 

I did appeal unto Caesar, but Nero is a living 
lie and knoweth not truth nor justice. I appeal 
unto the God of Heaven, and have Jesus Christ as 
my intercessor. Nero’s executioner shall assist me 
to reach the great white throne of God. 

I am now ready to be offered, and the time of 
my departure is at hand. I have fought the good 
fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the 
faith. 

Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of 
righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, 
shall give me in that day; and not to me only, but 
to all who love His appearing. 

Away with him! Away with him! 

(Christians crowd to front of stage around Paul 
and march off DR with him, singing triumphant 
hymn.) 

(The two soldiers at DR step forward and turn 
about at DC and lead out the procession at exit 
DR. Paul with uplifted hands follows other Chris¬ 
tians, and Julius and other soldiers come last.) 

(Nero in a helpless rage walks about the stage, 
and, as they disappear, returns to throne and cries.) 

On with the revel. 

(Drill or performers appear from entrance DL 
begin to perform as the curtain drops, or some such 
closing stunt.) 


STAGE POSITIONS 




t ’ . 


• U R 

' 

uc 

; - • 

U L 


j- -- « - 

• l *' 

D C 

» t 

D R 

•\ • * • 

Down Center 

. 

D L 


U-up or rear, D-down or front 
R-Right, C-Center, L-Left 

























# 




% 












) 015 825 944 8 






















